You don’t even have to ask what the “it” is, do you? We all know that “it” refers to the Christmas season with all its busyness. As I think of how fast each one of these days go by, I wonder how in the world I can muster up enough energy to accomplish my list. I made the list which makes it important to me. Is it really so important? If I answer correctly, I would say no. However, I know myself; and at times, I put more importance on my list than the reason for the season. Is that you too? It’s so easy to get caught up in the whirlwind of celebration and forget why we celebrate in the first place. I’m writing this for myself to take a breath, in order to focus on Jesus. I’ve decided to make another list which will prompt me in that direction.

1. In every prayer, thank Jesus for humbling himself to come to earth as a human. It’s one short line in the midst of all of our words, which will help us to focus and remember. “…being born in the likeness of men. And being found in human form, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross.” [Philippians 2:7b-8.]
2. Thank God for every dollar you spend. As you shop, take a moment and send up a thank you for the provision God has made for you. We would not have the ability to share by giving if God didn’t provide first. “And my God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus.” [Philippians 4:19.]
3. Every package you wrap is an opportunity for prayer. Take the time to pray for each person you are giving to this year. What a great time to lift up our family, friends, church members, and neighbors before the throne of grace! “I do not cease to give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers.” [Ephesians 1:16.]
4. Christmas is a time to connect with those outside our circles, as well as those who live in other parts of the country. Cookies for neighbors, gift card for the mail carrier, a smile and kindness to those who are working hard in retail, and letters or phone calls to those who live elsewhere. We have to be intentional and take the time to connect. “And coming up at that very hour she (Anna) began to give thanks to God and to speak of him to all who were waiting for the redemption of Jerusalem.” [Luke 2:38.]
5. Celebrate the reason for the season, Jesus. There will be sadness during our celebrations as we consider those who are no longer with us or those who choose not to be with us. This sadness needs to be the catalyst for celebration of the only one who can comfort us and give us strength, Jesus. HE CAME! HE LIVED A PERFECT LIFE! HE DIED A PERFECT DEATH! HE WAS THE PERFECT SACRIFICE FOR OUR SINS! HE ROSE AGAIN TO LIVE AT THE RIGHT HAND OF GOD AND INTERCEDE FOR HIS CHILDREN! These are truths that will help us to focus and will give us relief in our sadness. It’s his grace! Take time to pray and remind yourself of truth. “Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need.” [Hebrews 4:16.]

My goal this year is to seek to follow these steps to keep myself from getting too busy to remember.  Will you join me? Let’s exalt Jesus Christ this season!

“And while they were there, the time came for her to give birth. And she gave birth to her firstborn son and wrapped him in swaddling cloths and laid him in a manger, because there was no place for them in the inn.” [Luke 2:6-7.]